Acquisition of a Network of Workstations for Research in Parallel and Distributed Computing

Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc., Pomona CA

Investigators

Abstract

This project from a RUI institution, servicing the area of parallel and distributed computing, aims providing a network of workstations for research. Research projects underway include: Paradigm-Oriented Distributed Computing Using Mobile Agents, Mobile Agent Management, and Distributed Secure Information Management System. The first exploits the benefits of a mobile agents infrastructure and develops an environment for paradigm-oriented distributed computing. The second focuses on the use of mobile agents and their impact on networks performance. The last allows multiple servers to share the key to an encrypted file, and separates the access authentication and verification from the information storage. The equipment is expected to provide a solid computing infrastructure for research projects having computation-intensive applications (specifically, biology, physics, and mobile computing). Investigations to be conducted follow: Wavelet Based Image Reconstruction Algorithms, A Computational Screening Approach to Engineering Thermostable Proteins through Mutation of Protein Surface Residues, Development and Application of a Biased Brownian Dynamics Algorithm, and Parallel Mobile Action Generators. The first investigates the use of various wavelets in the new wavelet-based multiresolution EM algorithm for medical reconstruction; the second develops and applies Poisson-Boltzmann (PB) continuum electrostatics methods to a variety of biochemical systems; the third uses PB electrostatics in conjunction with biased Brownian dynamics simulation methods to calculate biomolecular encounter rates; and the fourth aims at improving the performance of a mobile action generator developed for the mobility management in wireless communication networks. The infrastructure will provide a state-of-the-art hands-on instructional laboratory for training and education of students to be part of the high-tech workforce.